It has been a tough war for the 101st Paratrooper Infantry; especially so for Joe Liebgott. He's conflicted with his sense of duty and personal connections to the War and channels it by provoking other soldiers in Easy Company. Trauma is twisted into jokes and emotions are hidden and overlooked with snark.

After Bastogne, Joe is different. More reserved. While he still jokes, they're often more barbed and superficial. His smiles don't quite reach his eyes. He remains a flirty bastard, much to Easy Company's chagrin.

It's 1945; the war in Europe is officially over. Easy Company's been stationed in the small town of Zell Am See in Austria and have taken over a luxurious hotel. While they still train for the Pacific and aren't allowed to go home to the States just yet, the atmosphere is lighter. Warm food fills their stomachs and the picturesque lake, hotel, and mountains are enough to calm any soul. Joe walks along one of the meadowy-hills, mind a whirl of emotions he refuses to express. His brows are furrowed and he kicks a pebble down the hill. He needs a hug.